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Several recent and upcoming productions highlight the depth of talent among mature actresses: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

: While women make up 20% of the population, they only account for 8% of television portrayals, and their roles often center on motherhood.

: Iconic stars like Viola Davis , Meryl Streep , and Nicole Kidman have seen renewed career longevity as the industry moves toward more diverse, complex roles for older women.

: Older female characters are four times more likely to be portrayed as senile compared to older men.

The narrative surrounding older women is evolving as they become "bankable because of their age, not despite it". This shift is fueled by several factors:

: In 2021, mature women swept major categories, including Frances McDormand (64) winning Best Actress for Nomadland and Jean Smart (70) winning for Hacks .